I need to add an embossed arrow to a design. Here's my methodology, and though it works, I wanted to see if there's a better or more efficient workflow:

Here's the arrow, which has been Projected onto the surface of the target:



My current methodology is to first extrude the curve:



Then draw lines and use Network to create a top surface:






Since this is going to be "imbedded" into a solid via union (the depth of the emboss is about half the height), I don't need to create a "bottom surface in this case.

Is this the best way to accomplish this? It works but do find that I have to be extremely careful on the surface creation via network less I have naked edges.

Thanks

Hi scott, relief and embossing type work can be difficult in CAD.

But a few things to check out are this thread:
http://moi3d.com/forum/index.php?webtag=MOI&msg=8952.1

and these:
http://moi3d.com/forum/index.php?webtag=MOI&msg=602.7
http://moi3d.com/forum/index.php?webtag=MOI&msg=2799.8
http://moi3d.com/forum/index.php?webtag=MOI&msg=2640.1

and it could be easier to build an initial flat object and use Transform > Deform > Flow to place it onto your curved object rather than trying to construct it there in place:
http://moi3d.com/3.0/docs/moi_command_reference8.htm#flow

- Michael

Hi scott,

like Michael said, it is easier to use a flat design and then flow it or project the flat curves
onto the surface.

What i usually do is creating a flat design, made of a closed curve, project it onto the
solid and then use the trim command. After that i use the trimmed surface and raise
or lower it with the move tool and finally loft the edges between the surfaces.

The other approach i use is shown in Michael's first link. Here i create also a flat
design and create a depthmap from it and then use ZSurf and MoI's flow command.

Both techniques work very well for me and in case final filleting should fail i usually
use free versions of Autodesk Inventor or Autodesk 123D Design to accomplish this
task.

Hope this helps!

[Edit] in order to loft the edges i usually copy and paste the edges and then join
them to have two closed curves, which can then be lofted.

Regards
Stefan